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Oral Transmission of Listeria monocytogenes in Mice via Ingestion of Contaminated Food
08:38

Oral Transmission of Listeria monocytogenes in Mice via Ingestion of Contaminated Food

Published on: May 6, 2013

[A case of Listeria meningoencephalitis with a fatal result]

M Wawrzynowicz-Syczewska1, E Dworak

  • 1Klinika Chorób Zakaźnych PAM, Szczecinie.

Przeglad Epidemiologiczny
|January 1, 1991
PubMed

Insights

A severe case of Listeria monocytogenes meningoencephalitis proved fatal in an immunocompromised alcoholic patient. Symptoms included seizures and respiratory failure, highlighting the aggressive nature of this infection in vulnerable individuals.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Listeria monocytogenes is a facultative intracellular bacterium that can cause severe invasive infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Meningoencephalitis, an inflammation of the brain and meninges, can lead to rapid neurological deterioration.
  • Alcoholism is a known risk factor for invasive Listeria infections due to its effects on immune function.

Observation:

  • A fatal case of severe meningoencephalitis was diagnosed.
  • The patient was an alcoholic with a compromised immune system.
  • Clinical presentation included unconsciousness, meningeal signs with lateralization, seizures, and respiratory failure.

Findings:

  • Listeria monocytogenes was identified as the causative agent of the severe meningoencephalitis.
  • The infection progressed rapidly, leading to death within three days of symptom onset.
  • Neurological deficits, including lateralization of signs, were noted.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the critical risk of invasive Listeria monocytogenes infections in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with alcoholism.
  • Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in suspected cases of Listeria meningoencephalitis.
  • Further research into the specific immunological defects associated with alcoholism may aid in preventing such severe outcomes.

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